Respiratory issues in horses can begin quietly and develop subtly. The earlier symptoms or signs of illness are noticed, the better the horse’s chances of recovering and staying in good condition. What symptoms should you watch for, and how can you monitor your horse’s breathing at home?
The most common early symptoms and the three most typical signs of respiratory problems are:
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Changes in respiratory rate or increased effort to breathe
Nasal discharge
Nasal discharge can be clear and watery, white/yellow and thicker, or bloody. It’s also important to observe whether the discharge is coming from one nostril or both.
- If discharge consistently comes from only one nostril, the issue is most likely in the upper airways, in front of the throat area.
- If discharge comes from both nostrils, it may indicate a disease in either the upper or lower airways.
Upper airway infections can also enlarge the lymph nodes under the jaw and along the neck.
Coughing
A horse may cough briefly and occasionally, or cough deeply with noticeable abdominal effort.
- A dry cough does not produce discharge.
- A productive cough brings up secretions (mucus, pus, or fluid) from the airways. This may be seen as nasal discharge after coughing or as the horse swallowing.
Seasonal variation
Autumn dampness and cooling temperatures can affect a horse’s respiratory system in several ways:
1. Cold air
- Cold, cool inhaled air irritates the mucous membranes of the airways.
- The horse may cough more easily, especially at the beginning of exercise when breathing increases.
- Horses with asthma may show clearly worsened symptoms in cold conditions.
2. Humidity and damp air
- Can increase dust and mold spores in the stable environment if bedding or forage is damp.
- Moldy hay and poor ventilation worsen respiratory symptoms.
- Humidity can also make it easier for viruses to spread → more colds and coughs in autumn.
3. Temperature fluctuations
- Rapid changes between day and night temperatures can strain the immune system.
- The horse may develop cold-like symptoms more easily.
If a horse coughs repeatedly at the start of exercise, it may indicate asthma. Of course, it can also be a sign of upper airway irritation (e.g. dusty forage, bedding, or poor stable ventilation) or inflammation in the lower airways. Coughing should be monitored, and if it continues, you should contact a veterinarian.
Monitoring respiratory rate
A horse’s normal resting respiratory rate is 8–16 breaths per minute. You can count it by watching the movement of the horse’s flanks or chest.
Respiratory rate can also rise without illness, for example due to:
- hot weather
- pain, stress, or exercise
Also observe the depth and length of breathing:
- If exhalation is prolonged and labored → the problem may be in the lower airways.
- If inhalation is prolonged and difficult → there may be an obstruction in the upper airways.
A horse with respiratory disease often recovers slowly from exertion. In severe cases, breathing may be shallow, rapid, and frequent.
Other symptoms
A horse with respiratory disease may also have:
- an elevated heart rate
- fever
- reduced appetite
- reluctance to move
- abnormal breathing sounds such as roaring or wheezing
Summary
If you notice nasal discharge, coughing, or changes in respiratory rate or effort, monitor the situation—these can be signs of respiratory disease.
Pay close attention to which nostril the discharge comes from, the type of cough, and how the horse breathes at rest and after exercise. These observations help a veterinarian determine whether the problem is in the upper or lower airways—and start the right treatment early.
Tips to support your horse’s respiratory system
Respiratory well-being can also be supported with appropriate supplements and herbs.
- Herbs – herbs can support respiratory well-being and normal function. Examples include thyme, anise, licorice root, garlic, and peppermint.
- Black cumin seed oil (Nigella sativa) – traditionally used to support breathing.
- Vitamin C and antioxidant supplements – support immunity, especially during stress or exertion.
There is also research available on the use of herbs to support horses’ respiratory health, which you can explore here.
Source: The Horse Magazine
